Saint Mary Claims First KCAC Title Since 2013 in Electric Championship Win Over Bethel

LEAVENWORTH, Kan. – In a night filled with intensity and passion, the University of Saint Mary men's basketball team etched its name in history, capturing the 2025 KCAC Men's Basketball Championship with a thrilling 78-74 victory over Bethel College. The Spires, the No. 4 seed, defied the odds by hosting the conference title game inside a packed and electrifying Ryan Sports Center, where a near sell-out crowd roared from start to finish.

Sophomore guard Kaeden Bonner delivered a performance for the ages, exploding for 21 points in the first half and finishing with a game-high 28. Bonner's poise at the free-throw line in the closing moments solidified the victory, sending the home crowd into a frenzy.

Fellow Spires guard Jordan Brown was instrumental in setting the tone early, nailing a clutch three-pointer at the halftime buzzer to give Saint Mary a 38-29 advantage heading into the break. Brown finished the night with 13 points.

The Spires also saw major contributions from their supporting cast. Darius Pottard provided a crucial spark off the bench, scoring 12 points—including two massive second-half three-pointers—and grabbing six rebounds. Joey Schultz was flawless from the field, going 5-for-5 en route to 12 points.

With both teams exchanging scoring runs and the championship stakes at their peak, the Ryan Sports Center was electric. Chants from both Saint Mary and Bethel students echoed throughout the arena, creating an unforgettable environment. The Spires built their largest lead of 13 points midway through the second half, but Bethel battled back, setting up a dramatic finish.

As the Threshers attempted a late surge, the Spires responded with clutch plays on both ends of the court. Key defensive stops and precise free-throw shooting from Kaeden Bonner ensured that Saint Mary would not be denied its first KCAC championship in 12 years.

With the KCAC title secured, the Spires will now turn their attention to the NAIA National Tournament. The team will await its tournament destiny until Thursday when the NAIA releases its national seeding and brackets.